Methods and Devices for Presenting Auxiliary Energy Delivery Indicia on a Display

ABSTRACT

An electronic device includes one or more processors, a display, a primary energy storage device, and an auxiliary energy delivery device. The auxiliary energy delivery device selectively delivers energy to the primary energy storage device. When this occurs, the one or more processors present an icon at least partially superimposed upon a graphical representation of the primary energy storage device on the display.

CROSS REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application claiming priority andbenefit under 35 U.S.C. § 120 from U.S. application Ser. No. 15/592,908,filed May 11, 2017, which is incorporated by reference for all purposes.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

This disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and moreparticularly to user interfaces of electronic devices.

Background Art

The use of portable electronic devices, including smartphones, tabletcomputers, gaming devices, and other devices, is becoming ubiquitous.People use such devices to communicate with friends, family, andcolleagues, manage calendars and contact lists, browse and explore theInternet, and play games. These devices present information related tothese applications on a display.

As the technology associated with such devices has improved, so too havethe displays. High-resolution liquid crystal and other displays arecapable of presenting information in brilliant color and with sharpdetail. At the same time, as technology has advanced the devices havetended to become smaller. It can sometimes challenging for a user toconveniently view some types of information on some displays. It wouldbe advantageous to have an improved user interface for presentinginformation on displays of electronic devices.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer toidentical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate viewsand which together with the detailed description below are incorporatedin and form part of the specification, serve to further illustratevarious embodiments and to explain various principles and advantages allin accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 illustrates one explanatory electronic device in accordance withone or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates one explanatory system in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates another explanatory system in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates another explanatory system, with one embodiment of anattachment detached from an electronic device in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates the explanatory system of FIG. 4, but with theattachment coupled to the electronic device in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates one explanatory method in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates one explanatory graphical representation inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates another explanatory graphical representation inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates another explanatory graphical representation inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates yet another explanatory graphical representation inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates still another explanatory graphical representationin accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates various icons in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates one or more method steps in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates another explanatory method in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 15 illustrates one or more method steps in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 16 illustrates various embodiments of the disclosure.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures areillustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily beendrawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements inthe figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help toimprove understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Before describing in detail embodiments that are in accordance with thepresent disclosure, it should be observed that the embodiments resideprimarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus componentsrelated to the presentation of a visual indicator indicating that anauxiliary energy delivery device is delivering energy to the primaryenergy storage device of an electronic device. Any process descriptionsor blocks in flow charts should be understood as representing modules,segments, or portions of code that include one or more executableinstructions for implementing specific logical functions or steps in theprocess. Alternate implementations are included, and it will be clearthat functions may be executed out of order from that shown ordiscussed, including substantially concurrently or in reverse order,depending on the functionality involved. Accordingly, the apparatuscomponents and method steps have been represented where appropriate byconventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specificdetails that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of thepresent disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details thatwill be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art havingthe benefit of the description herein.

Embodiments of the disclosure do not recite the implementation of anycommonplace business method aimed at processing business information,nor do they apply a known business process to the particulartechnological environment of the Internet. Moreover, embodiments of thedisclosure do not create or alter contractual relations using genericcomputer functions and conventional network operations. Quite to thecontrary, embodiments of the disclosure employ methods that, whenapplied to electronic device and/or user interface technology, improvethe functioning of the electronic device itself by and improving theoverall user experience to overcome problems specifically arising in therealm of the technology associated with electronic device userinteraction.

It will be appreciated that embodiments of the disclosure describedherein may be comprised of one or more conventional processors andunique stored program instructions that control the one or moreprocessors to implement, in conjunction with certain non-processorcircuits, some, most, or all of the functions of presenting icons orother visual indicia that is at least partially superimposed uponvarious graphical representations as described herein. The non-processorcircuits may include, but are not limited to, a radio receiver, a radiotransmitter, signal drivers, clock circuits, power source circuits, anduser input devices. As such, these functions may be interpreted as stepsof a method to perform the presentation of visual indicators that atleast partially overlap graphical representations as described below.Alternatively, some or all functions could be implemented by a statemachine that has no stored program instructions, or in one or moreapplication specific integrated circuits (ASICs), in which each functionor some combinations of certain of the functions are implemented ascustom logic. Of course, a combination of the two approaches could beused. Thus, methods and means for these functions have been describedherein. Further, it is expected that one of ordinary skill,notwithstanding possibly significant effort and many design choicesmotivated by, for example, available time, current technology, andeconomic considerations, when guided by the concepts and principlesdisclosed herein will be readily capable of generating such softwareinstructions and programs and ICs with minimal experimentation.

Embodiments of the disclosure are now described in detail. Referring tothe drawings, like numbers indicate like parts throughout the views. Asused in the description herein and throughout the claims, the followingterms take the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the contextclearly dictates otherwise: the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includesplural reference, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on.” Relationalterms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be usedsolely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or actionwithout necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationshipor order between such entities or actions.

As used herein, components may be “operatively coupled” when informationcan be sent between such components, even though there may be one ormore intermediate or intervening components between, or along theconnection path. The terms “substantially” and “about” are used to referto dimensions, orientations, or alignments inclusive of manufacturingtolerances. Thus, a “substantially orthogonal” angle with amanufacturing tolerance of plus or minus two degrees would include allangles between 88 and 92, inclusive. Also, reference designators shownherein in parenthesis indicate components shown in a figure other thanthe one in discussion. For example, talking about a device (10) whilediscussing figure A would refer to an element, 10, shown in figure otherthan figure A.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide an efficient, succinct, andconvenient indicator for the display of an electronic device thatindicates when an auxiliary energy delivery device, such as an auxiliarybattery, a power supply, other electronic device, charger,supercapacitor, or other energy storage device, is delivering energy tothe primary energy storage device operating in an electronic device. Forexample, where an electronic device is a smartphone that includes alithium-ion or lithium-polymer electrochemical cell in a battery for aprimary energy storage device, auxiliary energy delivery devices candeliver supplemental energy to the primary energy storage device toincrease the overall “run time” of the smartphone. Advantageously,embodiments of the disclosure provide a quick indicator alerting theuser to conditions where the auxiliary energy delivery device isdelivering energy to the primary energy storage device.

Illustrating by example, in one or more embodiments an electronic deviceincludes one or more processors, a display, and a primary energy storagedevice such as an electrochemical cell. An auxiliary energy deliverydevice, such as another battery, a power supply, or a charger, isoperable to selectively deliver energy to the primary energy storagedevice.

In one or more embodiments, a sensor circuit operable with the one ormore processors detects energy being transferred from the auxiliaryenergy delivery device to the primary energy storage device. Forexample, a current sensor operable with the one or more processors candetermine when the auxiliary energy delivery device is delivering acharging current to the primary energy storage device.

In one or more embodiments, when this occurs, to alert the user to thefact that the auxiliary energy delivery device is delivering energy tothe primary energy storage device, the one or more processors present avisual indicator on the display. The visual indicator indicates that theauxiliary energy delivery device is delivering energy to the primaryenergy storage device.

The visual indicator can take one of numerous forms. In one embodiment,the visual indicator comprises an icon that is at least partiallysuperimposed upon a graphical representation of the primary energystorage device. For example, where the primary energy storage device isan electrochemical cell, the graphical representation of the primaryenergy storage device can comprise an image of a battery. In one or moreembodiments, the icon comprises one of a plus sign, a lightning bolt,and image of a plug for an alternating current outlet, a turbine image,or other image. Accordingly, in one or more embodiments a plus sign isat least partially superimposed upon an image of a battery.

In one embodiment, the plus sign (or other icon) is superimposed withinthe image of the battery. For instance, the plus sign can be placedwithin the perimeter boundary of the image of the battery. In one ormore embodiments, the plus sign is only partially superimposed on theimage of the battery. Illustrating by example, in one embodiment theplus sign overlaps, but is offset from, the image of the battery. Otherconfigurations for the visual indicator will be described below withreference to FIGS. 7-12. Still others will be obvious to those ofordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Turning now to FIG. 1, illustrated therein is one explanatory electronicdevice 100 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.The electronic device 100 of FIG. 1 is shown as a portable electronicdevice. For ease of illustration, the electronic device 100 of FIG. 1 isshown illustratively as a smartphone. However, the electronic device 100can take other forms as well, including as a palm top computer, a gamingdevice, a laptop computer, a multimedia player, and so forth. Stillother examples of electronic devices will be obvious to those ofordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

As will be described in more detail below, in one or more embodimentsthe electronic device 100 is selectively attachable and detachable froman auxiliary energy delivery device. The auxiliary energy deliverydevice can be a traditional charging device such as a charger or powersupply. However, in one or more embodiments, the auxiliary energydelivery device is an electrochemical cell disposed within an attachmentthat mechanically and electrically couples to the electronic device 100.The attachment becomes a “module” that attaches to the electronic device100 to increase functionality or the range of features in one or moreembodiments.

In one or more embodiments, the electronic device 100 includes a housing101. The housing 101 can include one or more housing portions, such as afirst housing portion and a second housing portion. In this illustrativeembodiment, the housing 101 is disposed about the periphery of a display102, thereby defining a major face of the electronic device 100.

A block diagram schematic 103 of the electronic device 100 is also shownin FIG. 1. In one embodiment, the electronic device 100 includes one ormore processors 104. The one or more processors 104 are operable withthe display 102 and other components of the electronic device 100. Theone or more processors 104 can include a microprocessor, a group ofprocessing components, one or more ASICs, programmable logic, or othertype of processing device. The one or more processors 104 can beoperable with the various components of the electronic device 100. Theone or more processors 104 can be configured to process and executeexecutable software code to perform the various functions of theelectronic device 100.

A storage device, such as memory 105, can optionally store theexecutable software code used by the one or more processors 104 duringoperation. The memory 105 may include either or both static and dynamicmemory components, may be used for storing both embedded code and userdata. The software code can embody program instructions and methods tooperate the various functions of the electronic device 100, and also toexecute software or firmware applications and modules. The one or moreprocessors 104 can execute this software or firmware, and/or interactwith modules, to provide device functionality.

In one or more embodiments the electronic device 100 includes a display102, which may optionally be touch-sensitive. In one embodiment wherethe display 102 is touch-sensitive, the display 102 can serve as aprimary user interface 107 of the electronic device 100. Users candeliver user input to the display 102 of such an embodiment bydelivering touch input from a finger, stylus, or other objects disposedproximately with the display. In one embodiment, the display 102 isconfigured as an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. However,it should be noted that other types of displays would be obvious tothose of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure. In one embodiment, the display 102 includes anelectroluminescent layer or light-emitting diode (LED) backlightinglayer disposed beneath the display 102 to project light through thedisplay 102. The display 102 can adaptively present text, graphics,images, user actuation targets, data, and controls along the displaysurface.

In this illustrative embodiment, the electronic device 100 also includesan optional communication circuit 106 that can be configured for wiredor wireless communication with one or more other devices or networks.The networks can include a wide area network, a local area network,and/or personal area network. Examples of wide area networks includeGSM, CDMA, W-CDMA, CDMA-2000, iDEN, TDMA, 2.5 Generation 3GPP GSMnetworks, 3rd Generation 3GPP WCDMA networks, 3GPP Long Term Evolution(LTE) networks, and 3GPP2 CDMA communication networks, UMTS networks,E-UTRA networks, GPRS networks, iDEN networks, and other networks.

The communication circuit 106 may also utilize wireless technology forcommunication, such as, but are not limited to, peer-to-peer or ad hoccommunications such as HomeRF, Bluetooth and IEEE 802.11 (a, b, g or n);and other forms of wireless communication such as infrared technology.The communication circuit 106 can include wireless communicationcircuitry, one of a receiver, a transmitter, or transceiver, and one ormore antennas.

The one or more processors 104 can be responsible for performing theprimary functions of the electronic device 100. For example, in oneembodiment the one or more processors 104 comprise one or more circuitsoperable with one or more user interface devices, which can include thedisplay 102, to present presentation information to a user. Theexecutable software code used by the one or more processors 104 can beconfigured as one or more modules 110 that are operable with the one ormore processors 104. Such modules 110 can store instructions, controlalgorithms, and so forth. While these modules 110 are shown as softwarestored in the memory 105, they can be hardware components or firmwarecomponents integrated into the one or more processors 104 as well.

A primary energy storage device 108 can serve as a principal energydelivery device for the electronic device 100. In one or moreembodiments, the primary energy storage device 108 comprises arechargeable battery having one or more electrochemical cells. Theelectrochemical cells can be any of lithium-ion cells, lithium-polymercells, nickel-metal-hydride cells, or other types of rechargeable cells.

In one or more embodiments, the primary energy storage device 108includes a memory 105. Information can be written to the memory 105,including the rated discharge voltage of the one or more cells of theprimary energy storage device 108, the voltages of the one or more cellsof the primary energy storage device 108 when charging commences, andwhen and how frequently the one or more cells of the primary energystorage device 108 should be charged. In one or more embodiments, thememory 105 of the primary energy storage device 108 can be anelectrically erasable programmable read only memory, although othersuitable types of memory devices can also be used with the primaryenergy storage device 108.

Other components 111 can be included with the electronic device 100. Theother components 111 can be operable with the one or more processors 104and can include input and output components associated with a userinterface 107, such as power inputs and outputs, audio inputs andoutputs, and/or mechanical inputs and outputs. The other components 111can include output components such as video, audio, and/or mechanicaloutputs. For example, the output components may include a video outputcomponent or auxiliary devices including a cathode ray tube, liquidcrystal display, plasma display, incandescent light, fluorescent light,front or rear projection display, and light emitting diode indicator.Other examples of output components include audio output components suchas a loudspeaker disposed behind a speaker port or other alarms and/orbuzzers and/or a mechanical output component such as vibrating ormotion-based mechanisms.

The other components 111 can include an energy management system 115configured to regulate energy delivery to the primary energy storagedevice 108. Illustrating by example, the energy management system 115can include a charging circuit that is electrically coupled to theprimary energy storage device 108. When an auxiliary energy deliverydevice, which will be described in more detail below, delivers acharging current to the energy management system 115, it can regulatelevels of current, whether current is flowing, and so forth. The energymanagement system 115 can include, for example, a control circuitconfigured to control the amount of charging current that flows to theprimary energy storage device 108. Additionally, the control circuit canalso be configured to monitor a discharge profile, charging profile,charging temperature, discharge temperature, and other characteristicsof the electrochemical cells of the primary energy storage device 108.Still other components will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in theart having the benefit of this disclosure.

One or more sensor circuits 113 are operable with the one or moreprocessors 104 in one or more embodiments. These sensor circuits 113 caninclude one or more energy delivery sensors 112. In one or moreembodiments, the energy delivery sensors 112 are operable to detectwhen, and optionally how much, energy is being delivered from anauxiliary energy delivery device to the primary energy storage device108.

Illustrating by example, the energy delivery sensors 112 can include asense resistor, Hall effect sensor, or other sensor to detect currentflowing from the auxiliary energy delivery device to the primary energystorage device 108. The energy delivery sensors 112 can optionallyinclude current control devices as well, such as a field effecttransistor and a diode. The one or more processors 104 can optionallyinitiate, terminate, and/or control energy delivery from the auxiliaryenergy delivery device to the primary energy storage device 108 usingthese components.

The energy delivery sensors 112 can include other components such as athermistor. Where a thermistor is included, the one or more processors104 can monitor a temperature of electrochemical cells in the primaryenergy storage device 108 using the thermistor. Still other componentssuitable for inclusion with the energy delivery sensors 112 will beobvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure.

In operation, when an auxiliary energy delivery device is electricallycoupled to the primary energy storage device 108, a charging current canflow from the auxiliary energy delivery device to the primary energystorage device 108 to charge the one or more cells disposed therein. Theone or more processors 104 can monitor the charging current that isbeing transferred to the primary energy storage device 108 using theenergy delivery sensors 112.

In one or more embodiments, the primary energy storage device 108 canoptionally include its own independent energy management circuit. Wheresuch an energy management circuit is included, many of the functions ofthe one or more processors 104 and the energy delivery sensors 112 canbe offloaded to, and embedded completely within, the primary energystorage device 108.

The one or more sensor circuits 113 can also be configured to sense ordetermine physical parameters indicative of conditions in an environmentabout the electronic device 100. Illustrating by example, the physicalsensors can include devices for determining information such as motion,bearing, location, acceleration, orientation, proximity to people andother objects, incident light amounts, and so forth. The one or moresensor circuits 113 can include various combinations of microphones,location detectors, motion sensors, physical parameter sensors,temperature sensors, barometers, proximity sensor components, proximitydetector components, wellness sensors, touch sensors, cameras, audiocapture devices, and so forth.

The one or more sensor circuits 113 can also include a touch pad sensor,a touch screen sensor, a capacitive touch sensor, and one or moreswitches. The one or more sensor circuits 113 can also include audiosensors and video sensors (such as a camera). The one or more sensorcircuits 113 can also include motion detectors, such as one or moreaccelerometers or gyroscopes. The motion detectors can detect movement,and direction of movement, of the electronic device 100 by a user. Theone or more sensor circuits 113 can also be used to detect gestures. Forexample, the other one or more sensor circuits 113 can include one ormore proximity sensors that detect the gesture of a user waving a handabove the display 102. In yet another embodiment, the accelerometer candetect gesture input from a user lifting, shaking, or otherwisedeliberately moving the electronic device 100. It should be clear tothose of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosurethat additional sensors can be included as well. Moreover, other typesof sensor circuits 113 will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in theart having the benefit of this disclosure.

An optional identification module 114 can be configured to determinewhether an auxiliary energy delivery device, the details of which willbe described below with reference to subsequent figures, is coupled tothe electronic device 100. In one or more embodiments, theidentification module 114 can detect not only whether an auxiliaryenergy delivery device is coupled to the electronic device 100, but thetype of auxiliary energy delivery device as well. For example, where theauxiliary energy delivery device comprises a power supply, theidentification module 114 can determine the type of power supply, outputvoltage, maximum current, and so forth. Similarly, where the auxiliaryenergy delivery device comprises an attachment that mechanically,magnetically, or otherwise couples to the electronic device 100, theidentification module 114 can determine the type of energy deliverydevice disposed within the attachment, the amount of energy it candelivery, at what current and voltage, and so forth. Other examples ofidentification techniques will be obvious to those of ordinary skill inthe art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Illustrating by example, where the auxiliary energy delivery device isconfigured as an attachment that mechanically couples to the electronicdevice 100, in one embodiment the identification module 114 is operablewith multiple mechanical connectors to determine which are engaged toidentify the attachment. Where the attachment is electrically coupled tothe electronic device 100, in one embodiment the identification module114 can identify the attachment by exchanging electrical signals with acontrol circuit of the attachment. These electrical signals can includeinformation about the auxiliary energy delivery device such as ratedcharging limit, rated discharging limit, type of cell, profiles ofdischarge, voltage profiles, predefined usage criteria, and otherinformation.

It is to be understood that FIG. 1 is provided for illustrative purposesonly and for illustrating components of one electronic device 100 inaccordance with embodiments of the disclosure, and is not intended to bea complete schematic diagram of the various components required for anelectronic device. Therefore, other electronic devices in accordancewith embodiments of the disclosure may include various other componentsnot shown in FIG. 1, or may include a combination of two or morecomponents or a division of a particular component into two or moreseparate components, and still be within the scope of the presentdisclosure.

Turning now to FIG. 2, illustrated therein is one explanatory system 200in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In one ormore embodiments, the system 200 includes one of an electronic device100 and an attachment 201. In one or more embodiments, the attachment201 can be selectively attached to, or detached from, the electronicdevice 100 or an electronic device module.

As the principal components of the electronic device 100 were explainedabove with reference to FIG. 1, attention will now be directed to theattachment 201. In one or more embodiments, the attachment includes ahousing 202. In one or more embodiments, the housing 202 is selectivelyattachable to the electronic device 100 by one or more coupling devices.

In one or more embodiments, the housing 202 of the attachment 201 can bemechanically attached to the electronic device 100. For example,mechanical clasps for the attachment 201 can be configured to wrapabout, or engage, the housing 101 of the electronic device 100, therebyretaining the attachment 201 against a surface of the housing 101. Suchclasps permit the attachment 201 to be completely detached from theelectronic device 100 and treated as an accessory.

In another embodiment, when not in use, the attachment 201 may bemechanically retained to the electronic device 100 by a lanyard orsimilar device. Such a configuration helps to prevent inadvertent lossof the attachment 201 when detached from the housing 101 of theelectronic device 100.

In yet another embodiment, the attachment 201 may be coupled to theelectronic device 100 by a hook and slider mechanism so as to bedetachable from the housing 101 yet non-detachable from the electronicdevice 100 itself. Other attachment mechanisms include magneticcouplings, snaps, protective casing couplings, boot couplings, staticattachment connectors, vertical locators, horizontal locators, and thelike. Some of these various mechanical configurations will beillustrated in more detail below. These mechanical embodiments areintended to be illustrative only. As an alternate to mechanicalattachments, the attachment 201 can be attached to the housing 101 usingstatic adhesion, mechanical suction, or in other ways.

In one or more embodiments, the attachment 201 comprises at least oneauxiliary energy delivery device 203. In the illustrative embodiment ofFIG. 2, the auxiliary energy delivery device 203 comprises a thermalelectrochemical cell. Examples of electrochemical cells include alithium-ion cell, a lithium-polymer cell, or a nickel-metal-hydridecell. Still other types of electrochemical cells will be obvious tothose of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure. The auxiliary energy delivery device 203 can include one ormultiple electrochemical cells. Where multiple electrochemical cells areincluded, they can be coupled in series, in parallel, or combinationsthereof.

In some embodiments, the attachment 201 will include only the auxiliaryenergy delivery device 203, which is carried by the housing 202. Inother embodiments, the attachment 201 can include mechanical actuators,control circuits, memory devices, energy sensors, current sensors,safety circuits, and other components.

In one or more embodiments, the electronic device 100 and the attachment201 can even include complementary or common components. For example,the electronic device 100 and attachment 201 may both include componentsfor receiving user input, such as loudspeakers, microphones, earpiecespeakers, and the like. When such components are included in theattachment 201 and the electronic device 100, a user can—forexample—deliver voice input to a microphone disposed in the electronicdevice 100 or the attachment 201. An electrical connection therebetweencan deliver user input received by the attachment 201 to the electronicdevice 100.

In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 2, some features visible in thefront side 206 of the electronic device 100 include an earpiece speaker207, a loudspeaker 208, a microphone 209, and of course, the display102. To facilitate optimal interaction with a user, in one or moreembodiments the backside 210 of the attachment 201 can also include anearpiece speaker 211, a loudspeaker 212, and microphone 213. In analternative embodiment, the attachment 201 may simply include aperturesto port or channel acoustic, visible, or other signals to an earpiecespeaker, microphone, or camera disposed on the backside of theelectronic device 100.

The attachment 201 can be equipped with additional features as well.Illustrating by example, in one or more embodiments the attachment 201can include a camera 214 or other device to enhance electronic deviceoperation. The camera 214 can be carried on the housing 202 of theattachment 201 to provide an enhanced feature for the electronic device100 in one or more embodiments. In other embodiments where theelectronic device 100 may include its own rear-facing camera, the camera214 of the attachment 201 may be accompanied by an aperture 215 to allowa sight line for the rear-facing camera of the electronic device 100.These various options are included to demonstrate the numerous featuresand devices that can be incorporated into the attachment 201 beyond justthe auxiliary energy delivery device 203. However, as noted above, insome embodiments the attachment 201 will carry only the auxiliary energydelivery device 203 and any corresponding energy delivery circuitry. Thevarious combinations and permutations of features to include within theattachment 201 beyond the auxiliary energy delivery device 203 will beobvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure.

In one or more embodiments, the attachment 201 also includes an energycapacity indicator 217 that is operable with the auxiliary energydelivery device 203. In this illustrative embodiment, the energycapacity indicator 217 comprises a plurality of lights 218,219,220,221,each of which is configured as a light emitting diode. In one embodimentthe energy capacity indicator 217 is to present a visible indication tothe user that is indicative of the amount of energy stored in theauxiliary energy delivery device 203 when a button 223 is pressed. Theenergy capacity indicator 217 may be configured to convey otherinformation as well, such as indicating that energy sharing is occurringwith the primary energy storage device 108.

Where this energy capacity indicator 217 is not included, a user candetermine the state of charge of one or both of the primary energystorage device (108) or the auxiliary energy delivery device 203 inother ways. Illustrating by example, the user may pull down the curtain222 of FIG. 2 to obtain supplemental information about the electronicdevice 100 and its components. Other techniques will be obvious to thoseof ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Turning now to FIG. 3, illustrated therein are examples of various waysin which an attachment 301 can be coupled to an electronic device 100 inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. As notedabove, in one or more embodiments of the disclosure, the attachment 301can be coupled to the electronic device 100 by mechanical, magnetic,suction, static, and other techniques.

As shown in FIG. 3, the backside 316 of the electronic device 100 caninterface with the front side 327 of one explanatory attachment 301configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.The backside 316 of the electronic device 100 defines a major face ofthe electronic device 100. The front side 327 of the attachment 301,which defines a major face of the attachment 301, can be selectivelyattachable to this major face of the electronic device 100 in one ormore embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 3, the backside 316 of the electronic device 100includes a rear-facing camera 317. To reduce the number of componentsand to simplify construction of the attachment 301, in this illustrativeembodiment the attachment 301 includes an aperture 318 through whichlight may pass to the rear-facing camera 317 when the attachment 301 iscoupled to the back side 316 of the electronic device 100. As before,the attachment 301 includes a housing 302 that carries one or moreelectrochemical cells.

In one or more embodiments, the housing 302 of the attachment 301 can bemechanically attached to the electronic device 100 or an electronicdevice module by one or more coupling devices. In one illustrativeembodiment, the coupling devices comprise mechanical clasps330,331,332,333 that are configured to wrap about, or engage, thehousing 101 of the electronic device 100, thereby retaining theattachment 301 against the major surface defined by the back side 316 ofthe housing 101. Such mechanical clasps 330,331,332,333 permit theattachment 301 to be completely detached from the electronic device 100and treated as a separate accessory. In FIG. 4, the attachment 301 isshown detached from the electronic device 100, while in FIG. 5 theattachment 301 is shown attached to the electronic device 100 to form asystem 500.

Other coupling systems may be used instead of, or in conjunction with,the mechanical clasps 330,331,332,333. Illustrating by example, thebackside 316 of the electronic device 100 can include one or morealignment features 342 configured and placed to mate with complementarymating features 343 on the front side 327 of the attachment 301. In oneor more embodiments, the alignment features 342 and complementary matingfeatures 343 are magnetic such that the front side 327 of the attachment301 can be magnetically adhered to the backside 316 of the electronicdevice 100. Attachments configured in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the disclosure can be coupled to electronic devices inother ways as well. These include snaps, protective casing couplings,boot couplings, static attachment connectors, vertical locators,horizontal locators, static adhesion devices, mechanical suctiondevices, or other devices.

In one embodiment the backside 316 of the electronic device 100 includesa connector array 344. The connector array 344 is located and configuredto mate with a mating connector array 345 on the front side 327 of theattachment 301. Electrical signals and/or a charging current 346 can bedelivered from the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) disposedwithin the attachment 301 to the primary energy storage device (108)using the connector array 344 and the mating connector array 345.Illustrating by example, in one or more embodiments the one or moreprocessors (104) of the electronic device 400 can selectively actuatethe delivery of energy, voltage, and/or current from the auxiliaryenergy delivery device (203) to the primary energy storage device (108).

As noted above, in one or more embodiments, a sensor circuit, e.g., theenergy delivery sensors (112) of FIG. 1, which is operable with the oneor more processors (104) of the electronic device 100, detects energybeing transferred from the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) to theprimary energy storage device (108). For example, a current sensoroperable with the one or more processors (104) can determine when theauxiliary energy delivery device (203) is delivering a charging current(346) to the primary energy storage device (108).

In one or more embodiments, when this occurs, to alert the user to thefact that the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) is deliveringenergy to the primary energy storage device (108), the one or moreprocessors (104) present a visual indicator on the display (102) of theelectronic device 100. The visual indicator indicates that the auxiliaryenergy delivery device (203) is delivering energy to the primary energystorage device (108). Turning now to FIG. 6, illustrated therein is onemethod 600 for doing just this in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the disclosure.

Beginning at step 601, the method 600 includes providing an electronicdevice (100). In one or more embodiments, the electronic device (100)includes a display (102), one or more processors (104), and a primaryenergy storage device (108) such as one or more electrochemical cells.

At decision 602, the method 600 includes detecting, with one or moreprocessors (104) of an electronic device (100), that an auxiliary energydelivery device (203) is electrically coupled to a primary energystorage device (108) of the electronic device (100). Illustrating byexample, where the electronic device (100) includes a connector array(344), the one or more processors (104) can detect that the auxiliaryenergy delivery device (203) is electrically coupled to the primaryenergy storage device (108) when a mating connector array (345) iselectrically coupled to the connector array (344). Similarly, the one ormore processors (104) can detect that the auxiliary energy deliverydevice (203) is electrically coupled to the primary energy storagedevice (108) via electrical signals and/or a charging current (346)delivered from the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) to the primaryenergy storage device (108) using the connector array (344) and themating connector array (345). Other techniques for determining that theauxiliary energy delivery device (203) is electrically coupled to theprimary energy storage device (108) will be obvious to those of ordinaryskill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Where the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) is electrically coupledto the primary energy storage device (108), the method proceeds to step603. Where the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) is notelectrically coupled to the primary energy storage device (108), theelectronic device (100) functions normally at step 604.

At step 603, the method 600 detects, with a sensor circuit, that theauxiliary energy delivery device (203) is delivering energy to theprimary energy storage device (108). Illustrating by example, in one ormore embodiments step 603 comprises detecting, with a sensor circuitoperable with the one or more processors (104) of the electronic device(100), a charging current (346) flowing from the auxiliary energydelivery device (203) to the primary energy storage device (108).

At step 606, the method 600 comprises presenting, with the one or moreprocessors (104), a visual indicator on a display (102) of theelectronic device (100). In one or more embodiments, the visualindicator indicates that the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) isdelivering energy to the primary energy storage device (108). In one ormore embodiments, the visual indicator is presented at step 606 onlywhen the charging current (346) is flowing from the auxiliary energydelivery device (203) to the primary energy storage device (108).

The visual indicator presented at step 606 can take one of numerousforms. In one embodiment, the visual indicator presented at step 606comprises an icon that is at least partially superimposed upon agraphical representation of the primary energy storage device. Forexample, where the primary energy storage device is an electrochemicalcell, the graphical representation of the primary energy storage devicecan comprise an image of a battery. In one or more embodiments, the iconcomprises one of a plus sign, a lightning bolt, and image of a plug foran alternating current outlet, a turbine image, or other image.Accordingly, in one or more embodiments a plus sign is at leastpartially superimposed upon an image of a battery.

In one embodiment, the plus sign presented at step 606 is only partiallysuperimposed within the image of the battery. Illustrating by example,in one embodiment the plus sign overlaps, but is offset from, the imageof the battery. In another embodiment, the plus sign is indented into aconcave recess created in the image of the battery. Other configurationsfor the visual indicator will be described below with reference to FIGS.7-12. Still others will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the arthaving the benefit of this disclosure.

At decision 607, the method 600 determines, with one or more processors(104) of the electronic device (100), whether the amount of energystored in the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) has fallen below apredefined threshold. Where the auxiliary energy delivery device (203)comprises a charger or power supply, decision 607 can be omitted.However, where the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) comprises anelectrochemical cell, such as a lithium-ion or lithium-polymer cell,there will be a predefined threshold, such as 3.8 volts in a single cellapplication, where the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) hasinsufficient energy to charge the primary energy storage device (108).Accordingly, in one or more embodiments decision 607 comprisesdetermining that a voltage of the auxiliary energy delivery device hasfallen below a predefined voltage threshold.

Where this occurs, at step 608, in one embodiment the method 600comprises removing, with the one or more processors (104), the visualindicator from a display (102) of the electronic device (100). In one ormore embodiments, the removal of the visual indicator indicates that theauxiliary energy delivery device (203) is no longer delivering energy tothe primary energy storage device (108).

Turning now to FIGS. 7-11, illustrated therein are various visualindicators configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of thedisclosure. Beginning with FIG. 7, in this illustrative embodiment thepresented indicia 700 includes a graphical representation 701 of theprimary energy storage device (108) and a visual indicator 702 that isfully superimposed thereon. In this embodiment, the graphicalrepresentation 701 of the primary energy storage device (108) is animage of a battery. As shown in FIG. 7, the visual indicator 702 is aplus sign, which has been illustrated as an icon. In this embodiment,the visual indicator 702 has been superimposed upon the graphicalrepresentation 701 of the primary energy storage device (108), i.e.,image of the battery. In this illustrative embodiment, the plus sign hasbeen situated such that it is bounded by a perimeter 703 of the image ofthe battery.

Turning now to FIG. 8, illustrated therein is another example ofpresented indicia 800 that indicates that an auxiliary energy deliverydevice (203) is delivering energy to a primary energy storage device(108). In this illustrative embodiment, as before, the presented indicia800 comprise a graphical representation 801 of the primary energystorage device (108) and a visual indicator 802. In this embodiment, thegraphical representation 801 of the primary energy storage device (108)again comprises an image of a battery, while the visual indicator 802comprises a plus sign.

In this embodiment, the visual indicator 802 overlaps 804, but is offset805 from, the graphical representation 801 of the primary energy storagedevice (108). As shown, in this embodiment the visual indicator 802indents the graphical representation 801 of the primary energy storagedevice (108) due to the fact that it is situated in a concave recess 803created in the image of the battery. Said differently, a linear side ofthe image of the battery (shown in FIG. 7) has been replaced with aconcave recess 803 into which the visual indicator 802 indents.

Turning now to FIG. 9, illustrated therein is another example ofpresented indicia 900 that indicates that an auxiliary energy deliverydevice (203) is delivering energy to a primary energy storage device(108). In this illustrative embodiment, the presented indicia 900 againcomprise a graphical representation 901 of the primary energy storagedevice (108) and a visual indicator 902. As before, the graphicalrepresentation 901 of the primary energy storage device (108) againcomprises an image of a battery, while the visual indicator 902comprises a plus sign.

In this embodiment, the visual indicator 902 is disposed at leastpartially within the graphical representation 901 of the primary energystorage device (108). As shown, the visual indicator 902 overlaps 904,but is offset 905 from, the graphical representation 901 of the primaryenergy storage device (108). Rather than including a concave recess(803), as was the case in FIG. 8, here the visual indicator 902 issimply atop the graphical representation 901 of the primary energystorage device (108).

Turning now to FIG. 10, illustrated therein is another example ofpresented indicia 1000 that indicates that an auxiliary energy deliverydevice (203) is delivering energy to a primary energy storage device(108). In this illustrative embodiment, the presented indicia 1000 againcomprise a graphical representation 1001 of the primary energy storagedevice (108). The visual indicator 1002 of this embodiment comprises anicon that includes a plus sign circumscribed with a circle.

In this embodiment, the visual indicator 1002 is presented in a way thatit is at least partially superimposed upon the graphical representation1001 of the primary energy storage device (108). In this illustrativeembodiment, the visual indicator 1002 overlaps an edge of the graphicalrepresentation 1001 of the primary energy storage device (108).

Turning now to FIG. 11, illustrated therein is another example ofpresented indicia 1100 that indicates that an auxiliary energy deliverydevice (203) is delivering energy to a primary energy storage device(108). In this illustrative embodiment, the presented indicia 1100 againcomprise a graphical representation 1101 of the primary energy storagedevice (108). The visual indicator 1102 of this embodiment comprises anicon 1104 that is configured as a plus sign.

In this embodiment, the icon 1104 is partially superimposed upon thegraphical representation 1101 of the primary energy storage device(108). In this illustrative embodiment, the icon 1104 overlaps an end ofthe graphical representation 1101 of the primary energy storage device(108). As shown, the icon 1104 is only partially disposed within anouter boundary 1106 of the graphical representation 1101 of the primaryenergy storage device (108).

In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 11, the graphical representation1101 of the primary energy storage device (108) also indicates, bypartially or completely visually filling the graphical representationwith an indicator 1107, the state of charge of the primary energystorage device (108). This technique could be applied to any of theembodiments of FIGS. 7-10 as well. Where this technique is not used, auser can determine the state of charge of one or both of the primaryenergy storage device (108) or the auxiliary energy delivery device(203) in other ways. Illustrating by example, the user may pull down thecurtain (222) of FIG. 2 to obtain supplemental information about theelectronic device (100) and its components. Other techniques will beobvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure.

The examples of FIGS. 7-11 each employ a plus sign as the visualindicator. However, embodiments of the disclosure are not so limited.Turning now to FIG. 12, illustrated therein are alternate icons1201,1202,1203 that can indicate that an auxiliary energy deliverydevice (203) is delivering current to a primary energy storage device(108). Icon 1201 comprises a lightning bolt image. Icon 1202 comprisesan image of a plug for an alternating current outlet. Icon 1203comprises an image of a turbine. These are examples only, as numerousother icons will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art havingthe benefit of this disclosure.

Turning now to FIG. 13, illustrated therein are one or more method steps1301,1302 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.Beginning at step 1301, an electronic device 100 is shown. Theelectronic device 100 includes one or more processors (104), a display102 that is operable with the one or more processors (104), and aprimary energy storage device 108 that is operable to power the one ormore processors (104). In this embodiment, the primary energy storagedevice 108 is an electrochemical cell.

An auxiliary energy delivery device 1303 is coupled to the electronicdevice 100. In one embodiment, the auxiliary energy delivery device 1303comprises a power supply 1304. In another embodiment, the auxiliaryenergy delivery device 1303 comprises a charger 1305. In yet anotherembodiment, the auxiliary energy delivery device 1303 comprises anotherelectronic device 1306. In this illustrative embodiment, the auxiliaryenergy delivery device 1303 comprises an electrochemical cell 1307 thatis operable to selectively deliver energy to the primary energy storagedevice 108.

As shown at step 1301, the electrochemical cell 1307 of the auxiliaryenergy delivery device 1303 has energy stored therein that exceeds apredefined threshold 1308 that is sufficient to continue the delivery ofenergy to the primary energy storage device 108. In one embodiment wherethe electrochemical cell 1307 is a single, lithium-polymer cell, thispredefined threshold is about 3.8 volts.

At step 1301, as the energy stored in the electrochemical cell 1307exceeds the predefined threshold 1308, and the electrochemical cell 1307is delivering energy to the primary energy storage device 108, the oneor more processors (104) present an icon 1309 at least partiallysuperimposed upon a graphical representation 1310 of the primary energystorage device 108 on the display 102 when the electrochemical cell 1307delivers the energy to the primary energy storage device 108. In thisembodiment, the icon 1309 is fully disposed within an outer boundary ofthe graphical representation 1310 of the primary energy storage device108. In other embodiments, as noted above, the icon 1309 is onlypartially disposed within an outer boundary of the graphicalrepresentation 1310 of the primary energy storage device 108.

Thus, at step 1301, the one or more processors (104) detect a chargingcurrent (346) flowing from the auxiliary energy delivery device 1303 tothe primary energy storage device 108 of the electronic device 100.Accordingly, the one or more processors (104) present, on the display102 of the electronic device 100, a plus sign at least partially withinan image of a battery to indicate the auxiliary energy delivery device1303 is delivering energy to the primary energy storage device 108.

Turning to step 1302, the stored energy in the electrochemical cell 1307has fallen below the predefined threshold 1308. In one or moreembodiments, the one or more processors (104) of the electronic devicedetect this. When this is detected, the one or more processors (104)then remove the icon 1309 from the graphical representation 1310 of theprimary energy storage device 108 in response to determining the amountof energy stored in the auxiliary energy delivery device 1303 has fallenbelow the predefined threshold 1308. This alerts the user to the factthat the electrochemical cell 1307 in the auxiliary energy deliverydevice 1303 requires recharging.

Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that charging efficiency ofthe primary energy storage device 108 can be increased when the primaryenergy storage device 108 is charged to a level below full capacity.Illustrating by example, most modern portable electronic devices employlithium-based cells for operation. Lithium-ion technology is a popularrechargeable cell technology that is prevalent in many mobile devices.The energy density of lithium-ion cells, which is measured in units ofenergy per volume (watt-hours/liter), is highly dependent upon thedensities of the active material coatings of the anode and cathodedisposed within the cell. A higher density coating on the anode andcathode generally increases the energy density of the cell. However,when the coating density increases, so too does the internal impedanceof the cell. High-density coating results in higher impedances withinthe cell. The higher impedances limit the maximum charge and dischargerate capability of the cell.

Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that charging such cells ismost efficient when it occurs between certain energy storage thresholds.Illustrating by example, for a 1600 milliamp-hour cell, embodiments ofthe disclosure contemplate that efficiency is maximized when the cell ischarged between a minimum threshold where there is insufficient energyto power the electronic device, and a reduced energy storage capacity,such as eighty percent of the maximum energy storage capacity.Accordingly, in one or more embodiments, an auxiliary energy deliverydevice is configured to only deliver energy to a primary energy storagedevice up to a predefined threshold that is X times the energy storagecapacity of the primary energy storage device, where X is a numberbetween zero and one. In one embodiment, X is about 0.8. Thus, for a1600 milliamp-hour cell as the primary energy storage device, in one ormore embodiments the auxiliary energy storage device only deliversenergy to the primary energy storage device when the stored energywithin the primary energy storage device is equal to or less than 0.8times 1600 mAh, or 1280 mAh.

In one or more embodiments, the user can select whether to fully chargethe primary energy storage device, as was the case in the embodiments ofFIG. 6 and FIG. 13, or to only charge the primary energy storage deviceto this predefined threshold. This latter mode of operation is known asthe “efficiency” mode of operation because it represents a state of theprimary energy storage device where charging is most efficient. Turningnow to FIGS. 14 and 15, explanatory methods of operating in theefficiency mode will be described in more detail.

Turning first to FIG. 14, at step 1401 the method 1400 determines, withone or more processors (104) of an electronic device (100), whether theelectronic device (100) is operating in the efficiency mode ofoperation. As noted above, in one or more embodiments, a user can selectthis mode of operation by entering user input at the user interface(107). In other embodiments, this can be a default mode of operation.Other options for selecting the efficiency mode of operation will beobvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure. Where the electronic device (100) is not operating in theefficiency mode of operation, the method (600) of FIG. 6 would apply.

Where the electronic device (100) is operating in the efficiency mode ofoperation, decision 1402 includes detecting, with one or more processors(104) of an electronic device (100), that an auxiliary energy deliverydevice (203) is electrically coupled to a primary energy storage device(108) of the electronic device (100). Illustrating by example, where theelectronic device (100) includes a connector array (344), the one ormore processors (104) can detect that the auxiliary energy deliverydevice (203) is electrically coupled to the primary energy storagedevice (108) when a mating connector array (345) is electrically coupledto the connector array (344). Similarly, the one or more processors(104) can detect that the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) iselectrically coupled to the primary energy storage device (108) viaelectrical signals and/or a charging current (346) delivered from theauxiliary energy delivery device (203) to the primary energy storagedevice (108) using the connector array (344) and the mating connectorarray (345). Other techniques for determining that the auxiliary energydelivery device (203) is electrically coupled to the primary energystorage device (108) will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in theart having the benefit of this disclosure.

Where the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) is electrically coupledto the primary energy storage device (108), the method 1400 proceeds todecision 1403 to determine whether an energy storage capacity of theprimary energy storage device (108) exceeds a predefined threshold. Inone or more embodiments, the predefined threshold is X times an energystorage capacity of the primary energy storage device (108), wherein Xis a number between zero and one. In one embodiment, X is about 0.8

Where the stored energy is above the predefined threshold, theelectronic device (100) functions normally at step 1404. Otherwise, themethod 1400 proceeds to step 1405.

At step 1405, the method 1400 detects, with a sensor circuit, that theauxiliary energy delivery device (203) is delivering energy to theprimary energy storage device (108). Illustrating by example, in one ormore embodiments step 1405 comprises detecting, with a sensor circuitoperable with the one or more processors (104) of the electronic device(100), a charging current (346) flowing from the auxiliary energydelivery device (203) to the primary energy storage device (108).

At step 1406, the method 1400 comprises presenting, with the one or moreprocessors (104), a visual indicator on a display (102) of theelectronic device (100). In one or more embodiments, the visualindicator indicates that the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) isdelivering energy to the primary energy storage device (108). In one ormore embodiments, the visual indicator is presented at step 1406 onlywhen the charging current (346) is flowing from the auxiliary energydelivery device (203) to the primary energy storage device (108) and thestored energy within the primary energy storage device (108) is belowthe predefined threshold.

This is true because, in one embodiment, step 1405 further comprisesterminating delivery of the energy from the auxiliary energy deliverydevice (203) to the primary energy storage device (108) when a state ofcharge of the primary energy storage device (108) reaches a predefinedthreshold. Accordingly, step 1406 would include removing, for example,the plus sign from the image of the battery when the state of charge ofthe primary energy storage device (108) exceeds the predefinedthreshold.

At decision 1407, the method 1400 determines, with one or moreprocessors (104) of the electronic device (100), whether the amount ofenergy stored in the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) has fallenbelow a predefined threshold. Where the auxiliary energy delivery device(203) comprises a charger or power supply, decision 1407 can be omitted.However, where the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) comprises anelectrochemical cell, such as a lithium-ion or lithium-polymer cell,there will be a predefined threshold, such as 3.8 volts in a single cellapplication, where the auxiliary energy delivery device (203) hasinsufficient energy to charge the primary energy storage device (108).Accordingly, in one or more embodiments decision 1407 comprisesdetermining that a voltage of the auxiliary energy delivery device hasfallen below a predefined voltage threshold.

Where this occurs, at step 1408, in one embodiment the method 1400comprises removing, with the one or more processors (104), the visualindicator from a display (102) of the electronic device (100). In one ormore embodiments, the removal of the visual indicator indicates that theauxiliary energy delivery device (203) is no longer delivering energy tothe primary energy storage device (108).

The method 1400 of FIG. 14 is shown graphically in FIG. 15. Turning nowto FIG. 15, at step 1501 the primary energy storage device 108 hasstored energy exceeding the predefined threshold 1504. Accordingly, theone or more processors (104) of the electronic device 100 terminatedelivery of the energy from the auxiliary energy delivery device 1505 tothe primary energy storage device 108. This occurs because the state ofcharge of the primary energy storage device 108 has reached, or exceeds,the predefined threshold 1504.

When this state is true, the one or more processors remove any icon fromthe graphical representation 1506 of the primary energy storage device108. As shown at step 1501, no icon appears in the graphicalrepresentation 1506 of the primary energy storage device 108.

By contrast, at step 1502, the state of charge of the primary energystorage device 108 has fallen below the predefined threshold 1504, whichin this illustrative embodiment is about eighty percent of a maximumenergy storage capacity of the primary energy storage device 108.Accordingly, the auxiliary energy delivery device 1505 begins deliveringenergy to the primary energy storage device. The one or more processors(104) therefore present an icon 1507 that is at least partiallysuperimposed upon the graphical representation 1506 of the primaryenergy storage device 108 on the display 102.

Turning to step 1503, the stored energy in the auxiliary energy deliverydevice 1505 has fallen below the predefined threshold 1508. In one ormore embodiments, the one or more processors (104) of the electronicdevice 100 detect this. When this is detected, the one or moreprocessors (104) then remove the icon 1507 from the graphicalrepresentation 1506 of the primary energy storage device 108 in responseto determining the amount of energy stored in the auxiliary energydelivery device 1505 has fallen below the predefined threshold 1508.This alerts the user to the fact that the auxiliary energy deliverydevice 1505 requires recharging.

Turning now to FIG. 16, illustrated therein are various embodiments ofthe disclosure. At 1601, a method comprises detecting, with one or moreprocessors of an electronic device, a charging current flowing from anauxiliary energy delivery device to a primary energy storage device ofthe electronic device. At 1601, the method also includes presenting, ona display of the electronic device with the one or more processors, aplus sign at least partially within an image of a battery to indicatethe auxiliary energy delivery device is delivering energy to the primaryenergy storage device. At 1604, the plus sign of 1601 overlaps, but isoffset from, the image of the battery.

At 1602, the method of 1601 further includes determining, with the oneor more processors, an amount of energy stored in the auxiliary energydelivery device falls below a predefined threshold. At 1602, the methodof 1601 further includes removing the plus sign from the image of thebattery in response to determining the amount of energy stored in theauxiliary energy delivery device has fallen below the predefinedthreshold.

At 1603, the method of 1601 further includes operating, with the one ormore processors, the electronic device in an efficiency mode ofoperation. At 1603, the method of 1601 further includes terminatingdelivery of the energy from the auxiliary energy delivery device to theprimary energy storage device when a state of charge of the primaryenergy storage device reaches a predefined threshold and removing theplus sign from the image of the battery.

At 1605, an electronic device comprises one or more processors, adisplay, operable with the one or more processors, a primary energystorage device, operable to power the one or more processors, and anauxiliary energy delivery device, selectively delivering energy to theprimary energy storage device. At 1605, the one or more processorspresent an icon at least partially superimposed upon a graphicalrepresentation of the primary energy storage device on the display whenthe auxiliary energy delivery device delivers the energy to the primaryenergy storage device.

At 1606, the icon of 1605 is only partially disposed within an outerboundary of the graphical representation of the primary energy storagedevice. At 1607, the graphical representation of the primary energystorage device at 1605 comprises an image of a battery, while the iconcomprises one of a plus sign, a lightning bolt image, a plug for analternating current outlet image, or a turbine image.

At 1608, the primary energy storage device of 1607 comprises anelectrochemical cell, while the auxiliary energy delivery devicecomprises one of another electrochemical cell, a power supply, anotherelectronic device, or a charger. At 1609, the auxiliary energy deliverydevice of 1608 comprises another electrochemical cell disposed within anattachment that is selectively attachable to the electronic device byone or more coupling devices.

At 1610, the one or more processors of 1609 further operate in anefficiency mode of operation. At 1610, the one or more processors of1609 terminate delivery of the energy from the auxiliary energy deliverydevice to the primary energy storage device when a state of charge ofthe primary energy storage device reaches a predefined threshold, andremoving the plus sign from the image of the battery. At 1611, thepredefined threshold of 1610 comprises X times an energy storagecapacity of the primary energy storage device, wherein X is a numberbetween zero and one. At 1612, X from 1611 is about 0.8.

At 1613, a method comprises detecting, with one or more processors of anelectronic device, an auxiliary energy delivery device electricallycoupled to a primary energy storage device of the electronic device. At1613, the method includes detecting, with a sensor circuit operable withthe one or more processors, a charging current flowing from theauxiliary energy delivery device to the primary energy storage device.At 1613, the method includes presenting, with the one or moreprocessors, a visual indicator on a display of the electronic device,the visual indicator indicating that the auxiliary energy deliverydevice is delivering energy to the primary energy storage device. In oneembodiment, the visual indicator of 1613 is indented into a graphicalrepresentation of the primary energy storage device.

At 1614, the visual indicator of 1613 comprises a plus sign. At 1615,the graphical representation of the primary energy storage device at1614 comprises an image of a battery. At 1616, the plus sign of 1615 issituated in a concave recess of the image of the battery. At 1617, theplus sign of 1616 is presented only when the charging current is flowingfrom the auxiliary energy delivery device to the primary energy storagedevice.

At 1618, the method of 1616 further comprises determining, with the oneor more processors, an amount of energy stored in the auxiliary energydelivery device falls below a predefined threshold and removing the plussign and an indentation from the image of the battery. At 1619, thedetermining the amount of energy stored in the auxiliary energy deliverydevice falls below the predefined threshold at 1618 comprisesdetermining that a voltage of the auxiliary energy delivery device hasfallen below a predefined voltage threshold. At 1620, the image of thebattery at 1619 indicates a state of charge of the primary energystorage device.

In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments of the presentdisclosure have been described. However, one of ordinary skill in theart appreciates that various modifications and changes can be madewithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forthin the claims below. Thus, while preferred embodiments of the disclosurehave been illustrated and described, it is clear that the disclosure isnot so limited. Numerous modifications, changes, variations,substitutions, and equivalents will occur to those skilled in the artwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure asdefined by the following claims. Accordingly, the specification andfigures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictivesense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within thescope of present disclosure. The benefits, advantages, solutions toproblems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, orsolution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as acritical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all theclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method, comprising: detecting, with one or moreprocessors of an electronic device, a charging current flowing from anauxiliary energy delivery device to a primary energy storage device ofthe electronic device; and presenting, on a display of the electronicdevice with the one or more processors, and in response detecting thecharging current flowing from the auxiliary energy delivery device tothe primary energy storage device, a visual indicator at least partiallywithin an image representing the primary energy storage device toindicate the auxiliary energy delivery device is delivering energy tothe primary energy storage device.
 2. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising: determining, with the one or more processors, an amount ofenergy stored in the auxiliary energy delivery device falls below apredefined threshold; and removing the visual indicator from the imagerepresenting the primary energy storage device in response todetermining the amount of energy stored in the auxiliary energy deliverydevice has fallen below the predefined threshold.
 3. The method of claim1, further comprising: operating, with the one or more processors, theelectronic device in an efficiency mode of operation; terminatingdelivery of the energy from the auxiliary energy delivery device to theprimary energy storage device when a state of charge of the primaryenergy storage device reaches a predefined threshold; and removing thevisual indicator from the image representing the primary energy storagedevice.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the visual indicator overlaps,but is offset from, the image representing the primary energy storagedevice.
 5. An electronic device, comprising: one or more processors; asensor circuit operable with the one or more processors; a display,operable with the one or more processors; a primary energy storagedevice, operable to power the one or more processors; and an auxiliaryenergy delivery device, selectively delivering energy to the primaryenergy storage device; the one or more processors automaticallypresenting an icon at least partially superimposed upon a graphicalrepresentation of the primary energy storage device on the display inresponse to detecting, with the sensor circuit, the auxiliary energydelivery device delivering the energy to the primary energy storagedevice.
 6. The electronic device of claim 5, wherein the icon is onlypartially disposed within an outer boundary of the graphicalrepresentation of the primary energy storage device.
 7. The electronicdevice of claim 5, wherein: the graphical representation of the primaryenergy storage device comprises an image of a battery; and the iconcomprises one of a plus sign, a lightning bolt image, a plug for analternating current outlet image, or a turbine image.
 8. The electronicdevice of claim 7, wherein: the primary energy storage device comprisesan electrochemical cell; and the auxiliary energy delivery devicecomprises one of: another electrochemical cell; a power supply; anotherelectronic device; or a charger.
 9. The electronic device of claim 8,wherein the auxiliary energy delivery device comprises the anotherelectrochemical cell disposed within an attachment that is selectivelyattachable to the electronic device by one or more coupling devices. 10.The electronic device of claim 9, the one or more processors furtheroperating in an efficiency mode of operation, terminating delivery ofthe energy from the auxiliary energy delivery device to the primaryenergy storage device when a state of charge of the primary energystorage device reaches a predefined threshold, and removing the plussign from the image of the battery.
 11. The electronic device of claim10, the predefined threshold comprising X times an energy storagecapacity of the primary energy storage device, wherein X is a numberbetween zero and one.
 12. The electronic device of claim 11, wherein Xis about 0.8.
 13. A method, comprising: detecting, with one or moreprocessors of an electronic device, an auxiliary energy delivery deviceelectrically coupled to a primary energy storage device of theelectronic device; detecting, with a sensor circuit operable with theone or more processors, a charging current flowing from the auxiliaryenergy delivery device to the primary energy storage device; andpresenting, with the one or more processors, a visual indicator on adisplay of the electronic device, the visual indicator indicating thatthe auxiliary energy delivery device is delivering energy to the primaryenergy storage device; wherein the visual indicator is indented into aconcave recess of a graphical representation of the primary energystorage device.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the visual indicatorcomprises a plus sign.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the graphicalrepresentation of the primary energy storage device comprises an imageof a battery.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the plus sign issituated in the concave recess.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein theplus sign is presented only when the charging current is flowing fromthe auxiliary energy delivery device to the primary energy storagedevice.
 18. The method of claim 16, further comprising: determining,with the one or more processors, an amount of energy stored in theauxiliary energy delivery device falls below a predefined threshold; andremoving the plus sign and an indentation from the image of the battery.19. The method of claim 18, wherein the determining the amount of energystored in the auxiliary energy delivery device falls below thepredefined threshold comprises determining that a voltage of theauxiliary energy delivery device has fallen below a predefined voltagethreshold.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the image of the batteryindicates a state of charge of the primary energy storage device.